Savage X Fenty Responds to Criticism That They're Selling Different Styles to Straight- and Plus-Size Customers

With the introduction of their new Valentine's Day collection, Savage X Fenty has come under fire for carrying different options for plus-size shoppers and straight-size shoppers. In a recent tweet, fashion blogger Alysse Dalessandro (@ReadyToStare on Twitter), pointed out how different the brand’s new Hearts bralette looks for sizes S-XL compared to sizes 1X-3X. The former design is strappy with a peek-a-boo element, whereas the latter is a full-coverage sheer bra with heart-shaped adornments. It's the latest iteration of an enduring conversation in the plus-size community about the style disparity between plus versus straight offerings.

“I understand construction cannot always be the same for plus-size (especially in lingerie) but I know you can do strappy bralettes in plus,” she said, “So why do brands do this?” Of course, garment construction could play a part in why the bralette styles greatly differ. After all, scaling up from a size 2 to a size 20 isn’t as straightforward as just using more fabric. Often times, when expanding their sizes, designers have to tweak the design and construction of the pieces slightly. And in the case of lingerie, they have to be extra mindful and strategic when creating larger sizes to ensure that a bra for bigger busts has as much support as possible. That said, designing garments that fit bodies across a range of sizes isn't simple, but it is possible — even with lingerie.

When brands sell sizes beyond an XL, too often are their offerings watered-down versions of their other designs. People of size should be able to wear skin-baring lingerie as much as a slim person, and not just be limited to options that cover them up and their curves. When lingerie brands only provide body-concealing pieces for plus consumers, it perpetuates the idea that you have to be thin to be seen as attractive. And that couldn't be further from the truth.

Ashleigh of AshleighChubbyBunny on Instagram has been speaking out about the inconsistencies between Savage X plus and straight sizes since the brand launched. While she's received some support from her peers about her concerns, she's also been met with a lot of pushback. "I've dealt with people trying to shut me up about it, trying to get me to 'wait until the next launch,' and accusing me of being jealous for not being recognized or supported by the brand in the way that others are," she says.

Ashleigh, like many of people of size who feel excluded by the fashion industry, had high hopes for the line when it first came out. "My initial response to the launch of Savage X Fenty and it's positioning and messaging as being size inclusive was the same as everyone else's. I was beyond excited. Rihanna has single-handedly managed to revolutionize the makeup industry by doing what other brands refused to do for so long. And when she announced that she would be creating a size-inclusive lingerie line going beyond a size 18, that's what I thought we were going to have for the reality of Savage X Fenty."

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But that excitement quickly dissipated once she saw that the plus options weren't on par with straight-size options. Ultimately, Ashleigh thinks the design disparity stems from a long-held cultural belief that only certain types of women should be allowed to show off skin. "Other brands that cater to plus-sizes have no problem creating the same, or even sexier, lingerie for plus-sizes," she explains. In fact, brands like Cacique and Torrid already offer strappy bralettes similar to the one from Savage X Fenty’s Valentine’s Day drop.

Though Savage X Fenty has yet to respond to Ashleigh, Alysse says they reached out to her once her tweet went viral and was picked up by several outlets. "For the record Savage X Fenty messaged me and thanked me for my feedback," she tweeted. This isn't the first time Savage X has been criticized for their plus-size options. Many felt the brand should extend sizing beyond a 44DDD, and in May, senior publicist Andria Arizmendi responded to the criticism, stating: "All I can say is there are plans to expand in the future!"

There’s no denying that the fashion industry has greatly evolved in the last decade in embracing plus-size bodies. Still, for all the progress that has been made in fashion, true equality has yet to be achieved. While it’s commendable that Savage X Fenty has been inclusive of all different body types and shades since its inception, it’s vital that they offer the same options for all of the people they are catering to. If the playing field across the size spectrum is to truly be leveled, everyone should have access to the same style of clothes, no matter their size.

Teen Vogue has reached out to Savage X Fenty for comment and will update accordingly.